Secure Paper Money, It’s in Your Hand

Bank notes are important to all of us! They are critical to Canada’s economy. We all use them everyday, so counterfeiting can affect anyone.

As the sole issuer of Canadian bank notes, the Bank of Canada is committed to maintaining confidence in Canada’s paper money. The bank’s role is to design, produce and distribute high quality notes that are readily accepted and secure against counterfeiting.

Counterfeiting has been on the rise around the world because of easier access to improved computer technology that is relatively affordable. It is an international problem that also affects Canadians. Although the number of counterfeit notes detected in circulation in Canada is extremely small when compared with the more that one billion genuine bank notes in circulation. It is important that we all he vigilant.

Remember:

  • Most counterfeit notes are poor quality and can he easily detected
  • No denomination is exempt from the possibility of counterfeiting
  • All payment methods can he subject to fraud, protect yourself, learn how to use the security measures on bank notes

Check your Bank Notes, It is quick and Easy to Use

    1. Touch the raised surfaces on your money - The ink feels thicker to the touch. The security paper used to produce bank notes also has unique feel to it. It is very different that ordinary paper.
    2. Tilt your money - Look for the changing colours and images.
    3. Look through your money - Hold the note to the light and look for the watermark portrait and the see-through number i.e. the twenty dollar bill should have the number 20.
    4. Look at your money - Observe the intricate details of the note. There should be fine lines, micro-printing, security fibers and planchetts.

Remember:

  • Always check for two or more security features
  • Look for differences, not similarities
  • Compare a suspect note against one that you know is genuine
  • Check all bank notes you accept. It only takes seconds to distinguish a genuine note from a fake one.